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Parliament plays an important role in the life of the nation. It is elected...

Parliament plays an important role in the life of the nation. It is elected to represent the citizens of South Africa according to the Constitution. Parliament is the place where laws are passed and where important issues of the day are discussed. It is the place where the views of citizens can be heard directly by parliamentary committees. Parliament also keeps the executive and state institutions accountable. Parliament is made up of two 'houses' - the National Assembly and the National Council of Provinces (NCOP). The National Assembly represents the people, chooses the President, provides a forum for debate, passes laws, and oversees the executive. The NCOP represents the provinces to ensure that provincial interests are taken into account in the national sphere of government, participates in passing laws, provides a forum for debate of provincial issues, and ensures that local government is represented at national level. Both houses participate in debating and voting on the Budget. Most of this work is done by Members of Parliament (MPs) sitting in parliamentary committees. MPs also have responsibilities outside Parliament. They must consult with the public and serve people in their constituency areas. The Tours Office arranges free guided tours of Parliament covering the history, the functions of Parliament, an explanation of how Parliament works and how to get involved in the Parliamentary processes.

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TripAdvisor Reviewer Highlights

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“Interesting place”

This is a well set up parliament for visitors who are able to get a good understanding of the SA parliamentary system.

Got the chance to walk near by the building and really liked the vice surrounding it. Sadly it was closed when we went, but we still enjoyed the views of it and what it means to thd South African people. Well worth stopping by even if just for a few pictures.

As the legislative capital of SA, Cape Town's Parliament has a rich history. My organisation often has interns who visit Parliament as part of their orientation. Currently Ms Nhlanhla Mrwebi runs the tour programmes - I would recommend you email her to book a tour. Old and new parliament has a fascinating history. ..I highly recommend a visit of usually...
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This is a beautiful colonial building, completed in 1884 and fronted by the lovely Company Gardens on one side. The only way to see inside is by a guided tour and free tours are available Monday to Friday, excluding public holidays, between 9am and noon but have to be booked at least a week in advance; it is well worth...
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I sort of quite like the fact that homeless people now surround parliament. They sleep on the streets next the exterior fences - they have effectively turned the Company Gardens into a well-tended camp for the homeless. It sort of makes me feel a bit better about the fact that the dear old president has been shamelessly stealing the taxpayer's...
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would have loved to have visited this building but it's closed weekends and afternoons so try to get here in the morning mon to fri. the outside is lovely and in pleasant gardens, so you can enjoy a stroll around in the sun. there are a few other sites in the area so worth coming down here

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